Dog Training Foundations

Dog training foundations set the stage for everything your dog learns moving forward. These early steps are where trust is built, expectations are shaped, and good habits begin to take hold. This category focuses on the building blocks of communication, timing, reinforcement, and structure that help you create a strong foundation from the very first day.

You will find posts that walk you through key training concepts such as reward timing, reinforcement placement, basic cue introduction, and how to establish effective daily routines. We also explore how to set up your environment for success, avoid common mistakes, and recognize the difference between management and training.

Dog training foundations are especially important for puppies and newly adopted dogs, but they are equally valuable for guardians looking to refresh their skills or improve consistency. At Belle and Bark, we emphasize clarity, kindness, and science-based methods that help your dog learn without pressure or confusion.

By starting with strong training foundations, you make every future skill easier to teach and more reliable in real-world situations. Whether you’re introducing a marker, teaching your first cue, or creating a calm start to your day, the strategies in this category will guide you through each step with confidence.

Explore these posts to build your knowledge and set your dog up for success with well-timed, thoughtful training foundations.

puppy, sleeping, pet, owner, nature, adorable, animal, canine, cute, dog, sleep, sleeping puppy, asleep, portrait, puppy, puppy, puppy, puppy, puppy, dog, dog, dog, dog, sleep

What to teach your puppy: A guide for new dog parents

Bringing home a new puppy is exciting, but knowing where to start with training can feel overwhelming. In this guide, we’ll cover the first three things every new dog parent should teach their puppy: name recognition, engagement, and handling exercises. These foundations will help set your pup up for success and make future training much easier. Read on to learn how to get started!

What to teach your puppy: A guide for new dog parents Read More »

Detailed low light portrait of a pug dog with a thoughtful expression, highlighting its distinctive features.

Punishment in dog training: What to do instead

Many dog owners turn to punishment out of frustration or outdated advice, but science shows it’s not the best way to train. Punishment can lead to fear, anxiety, and even increased aggression—without actually teaching your dog what to do instead. This article breaks down the science behind why punishment fails, the unintended consequences it creates, and how reinforcement-based training provides a more effective and humane alternative.

Punishment in dog training: What to do instead Read More »

dog, animal, pet, friends, girl, nature, friendship, canine, mammal, love, care, friendship day, pet, pet, pet, pet, pet, friendship, friendship

The humane hierarchy: A better way to train your dog

Dog training should be kind, effective, and fair. The humane hierarchy, developed by Dr. Susan Friedman, provides a framework that ensures training is ethical, science-based, and prioritizes a dog’s well-being. Learn how each level—from addressing health and environment to using reinforcement—helps shape behaviour without fear or force. Discover why this method is the gold standard for ethical training and how it can help your dog thrive.

The humane hierarchy: A better way to train your dog Read More »

Cute puppy in a carrier at an outdoor festival with colorful signs.

Socialization done right: What it is (and what it isn’t)

Socialization isn’t just about letting puppies play with other dogs—it’s about helping them feel safe and confident in the world. From different people and environments to new sounds and textures, early and ongoing socialization is key to raising a well-adjusted dog. Learn about the critical socialization periods, how to avoid common mistakes, and why positive exposure throughout life makes a difference.

Socialization done right: What it is (and what it isn’t) Read More »

Scroll to Top